Adrian Newey, F1’s pre-eminent designer, has always dreamed of being part of a challenge on the America’s Cup yacht race and a tie-up announced today with British sailing hero Sir Ben Ainslie brings him into that world.
Newey has withdrawn from front line, day to day F1 activity, to work with Red Bull Advanced Technologies and Ben Ainslie Racing is partnering with RBAT in the field of advanced simulation and mathematical modelling.
“RBAT will apply its simulation and modelling skills to assist Ben Ainslie Racing in various areas of their campaign, as BAR aims to bring the America’s Cup home to Britain,” said a statement this afternoon.
Meanwhile Sir Ben Ainslie said: “BAR are really excited to be partnering with Red Bull Advanced Technologies. We are in a unique position in this country, and this campaign is about assimilating the very best of British in design and engineering – RBAT epitomises this.”
Ainslie is challenging for the 35th America’s Cup, hoping to win it for Britain. He won it as a skipper for the USA team last time out, coming in to turn around a deficit to Team New Zealand of 8-1 into a stunning 9-8 victory in San Francisco and his pedigree as an Olympic sailor is unmatched.
Ainslie said of Newey, “He’s a really lovely guy and the most successful designer in Formula One history. He’s keen on racing in the America’s Cup, it’s great for us.”
“It’s all about aerodynamics and hydraulics so we’ve already started discussions with the motorsport teams in the Formula One world.”
Newey has long talked about the America’s Cup as a challenge that stimulates him beyond life in F1. He looked around for a new challenge last season, talking to Ferrari about a possible transfer to Maranello, but Red Bull persuaded him to stay in Britain and in their family, rather than to compete against them.
RBAT trades on the intellectual property, engineering excellence and technological know-how developed through F1 competition.
Newey’s designs have won world championships for Williams, McLaren and Red Bull in a career spanning over 25 years.
Source: jamesallenonf1.com
